febrile neutropenia
A medical emergency in cancer patients characterized by fever and low white blood cell count, requiring immediate antibiotic treatment.
Full Definition
Febrile neutropenia is defined as a single oral temperature ≥38.3°C (101°F) or a temperature ≥38°C (100.4°F) sustained for one hour, in a patient with an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) <500 cells/μL or expected to fall below 500 cells/μL within 48 hours. This condition represents a true oncologic emergency as neutropenic patients have severely compromised immune systems and are at high risk for life-threatening bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. Immediate empirical broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy is indicated, typically with anti-pseudomonal coverage. Risk stratification helps determine whether outpatient or inpatient management is appropriate, with high-risk patients requiring hospitalization and intensive monitoring.
Usage
Usage note: Always considered an emergency requiring immediate evaluation and treatment; distinguish from isolated neutropenia or fever alone.
In Context
- "The patient developed febrile neutropenia on day 10 of chemotherapy and was started on cefepime." — Hospital admission note
- "Risk stratification for febrile neutropenia indicated low-risk status suitable for outpatient management." — Emergency department disposition